GB Technique: Summer Training – No-Gi Submissions

This week on GB Technique we are going to look at some submissions that we can do when training no-gi.
With the hot weather in the summer, it is nice to take off the kimono tops and train a little no-gi. Not only is it a little cooler, but training no-gi will help make your jiu-jitsu more complete.
Training without the gi will force you to use some different grips and learn a new perspective on how to control your opponent without the sleeve and collar grips.
A side note is that all of the submission techniques that work no-gi translate to the gi as well – but the opposite is not true.
Check out GB Online to see more Fundamentals at GB 1
Let’s take a look at some of the most common and lesser-known no-gi submissions with some of the top Gracie Barra black belt instructors.
1) The King of No-Gi submissions – the Rear Naked Choke
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the most effective no-gi submission of all. Don’t let the gi fool you, this is the KING of no-gi chokes.

2) No-Gi Side Mount Choke = Finalização Partindo dos 100kg
Prof. Jefferson Moura teaches how to set up the Darce choke when the opponent attempts to escape side control by turning into you.

3) Abdomen Shoulder Lock / “Hara Gatame”
I’ll bet that you never heard of this submission before. Hara is the Japanese term for stomach and the pressure exerted from your abdomen effects the Americana like shoulder lock on our opponent.

4) Guillotine and Kimura From Guard
Certain submissions are the same in both gi and no-gi. The kimura and triangle will always be there regardless of the ruleset.

5) The BullDog choke aka “No-Gi Clock Choke”
Everyone knows the King of Chokes, the Rear Naked Choke. This is a lesser-known variation to choke from the back in no-gi that is effective even at the highest levels of competition.

What is YOUR favorite no-gi submission?
If you have any questions about technique, please send us a message at GB Online!
Credits: Mark Mullen
Gracie Barra Black belt based in Asia